Certain elements trying to create a wedge between faiths: Omar

Certain elements want to create a wedge between the followers of different faiths for their vested interests, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said today and called for nurturing communal harmony in the state.
"All religions teach amity and brotherhood and create conducive atmosphere in the society for all to grow equitably and in a peaceful environment," Omar said at a function here.
He was addressing a congregation of thousands of devotees at Lamayuru, a remote village in this district of Ladakh region, after inaugurating Great Fotang Shrine and Amphitheatre.
"Certain elements, for their vested interests, want to create a wedge between the followers of different faiths and disturb the peace of the world," Omar said.

He said no religion preaches hatred but holds high, the principals of humanity and brotherhood.
Omar said peace and coexistence of the people of different faiths and cultures makes the society strong and ensures equitable development of all.

The Chief Minister said pilgrim tourism constitutes an important aspect of the state's tourism and all the three regions-- Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh posses rich pilgrim destinations.
He said renowned religious scholars and preachers have contributed a lot to keep the candle of communal harmony alive and inculcate the spirit of love, brotherhood and mutual respect for each other in the hearts and minds of people.

The chief minister said that his government has taken new initiatives to showcase Ladakh's tourist potential and attract more and more visitors here. He also referred to the beauty of Lamayuru.
The Fotang Shrine and Amphitheatre has been constructed by Tourism department and the Centre has granted Rs 1.07 crores for its construction.
It will promote pilgrim tourism in the area and help generate wide-ranging economic activities for the people in this remote are, an official spokesman said.
He said the shrine will also be utilised to observe the Great Snake Year 2013, which comes after every twelve years.
Besides, people from all parts of Ladakh and the state, a huge number of tourists from foreign countries have arrived here to observe the Great Snake Year, the spokesman said.